Can't add a custom URL

In the past, YouTube URLs were created by selecting a username, which was claimed on a first-come first-serve basis. Once a username was taken by a channel, it could never be used again, even if the original channel was inactive or deleted. This system resulted in many channels not being able to have the URL they wanted and deserved.

Custom URLs are based on channel description, Google identity, associated website, and a few other factors. This is to ensure that channels can get a URL that is unique to the channel's brand, consistent on YouTube, and shared across all of Google’s services.